SJ launches tender for 30 high-speed trains

SWEDEN’s national passenger operator, SJ, has launched a global tender for the supply of 30 trains with a maximum speed of 250km/h at an estimated cost of SKr 5-6bn ($US 627-752m).

Each train will have more than 350 seats, and will be based on proven technology, while being adapted for the harsh Nordic climate as well as wildlife straying on to the track. SJ says it wants the trains to be intelligent in everything from technical equipment and maintenance to passenger information.

SJ plans to introduce the trains in early 2021 on the Stockholm - Malmö - Copenhagen route as well as on services to Norway. They will also be suitable for operation on the planned Järna - Linköping and Lund - Hässleholm high-speed lines which will have a maximum operating speed of 250km/h.

The procurement is part of SJ’s five-year SKr 9bn investment strategy which includes the modernisation of its fleet of 200km/h X2000 tilting trains, and night trains.